Devi goes tough
There are certain life lessons you can only learn when faced with obstacles in life. This is how Manisha Devi sums up her journey through life.
Despite the hardship her family faced, she vowed to repay her mother and brother for the sacrifices they have done for her.
Mrs Devi, 25, is a legal officer at Legal Aid Commission at their Rakiraki office and is encouraging young people who are going through struggles that it is temporary because there is always light at the end of the tunnel.
Her pathway to law school started in 2015 and she was admitted to the bar in 2020.
“I had a wonderful childhood while growing up until I lost my father in 2014 when I was 16 years old. He was a man with a diamond heart,” Ms Devi said “After I lost him, I struggled financially to cater for my education. My brother Divneel Naidu took up part time jobs to
fulfill our needs and wants and he had to sacrifice his further studies.
“He worked hard to provide daily food and other household expenses. My mother was also sickly because she had a major chest operation when I was in high school.
“My mother suffered a lot taking on the responsibilities of a single parent.
“This is why I entered the legal fraternity since I believed in providing justice to people and changed my dream career of wanting to become a nurse.”
Growing up, Ms Devi was reminded of the importance of education.
“Tertiary Education Loan Scheme (TELS) catered all my tuition fees. I am glad the Government implemented TELS for needy students like us,” she said.
“I am happy for not giving up in my education career. Today, I am happy to be independent and feel proud when I support my family and assist members of the public.
“Struggles we face develop our strengths. When going through hardships and deciding not to quit, that is strength.
“Our family learned to lean on each other when the going got tough and encouraged
This is why I entered the legal fraternity since I believed in providing justice to people and changed my dream career of wanting to become a nurse. Manisha Devi LEGAL OFfiCER
each other and I am grateful for my family because despite the hardship we faced it made us stronger.”
Her advice to youths: “Never give up and if you have the passion for doing something, you will definitely succeed. I encourage youths to always give priority to their education.”